Immediately after a pipe bursts: shut off the main water valve to stop the flow; if safe, turn off electricity to affected areas; avoid entering water near electrical sources; move valuables away from the water; take photos for insurance; and call for professional water extraction right away. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons in minutes, so speed is critical.
What you need to know
Shut off the main water valve, avoid electricity, document, move valuables, and call for extraction immediately.
In detail
The first and most important step is to shut off the main water valve to stop the flow. Know where your main shutoff is before an emergency — it is often near the water meter or where the main line enters the home. Shutting off the water stops the flooding at the source.
If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or your breaker panel, do not enter the water. If you can safely do so from a dry location, turn off electricity to the affected areas at your breaker panel. Move valuables, electronics, and furniture away from the water if it is safe to do so.
Take photos and video of the damage for your insurance claim, then call for professional water extraction immediately. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in minutes, and the faster water is extracted and drying begins, the more materials can be saved and the lower the risk of mold. If there is any danger to life or safety, call 911 first.
Immediate action steps
- Shut off the main water valve immediately.
- Turn off electricity to affected areas if safe.
- Do not enter water near electrical sources.
- Move valuables away from the water if safe.
- Take photos for insurance.
- Call for professional extraction immediately.
Safety
Do not enter water near electrical sources. If there is any risk to life or safety, call 911 first.
Chicagoland context
In Chicagoland, burst pipes are most common during deep winter freezes, especially in exterior walls, unheated crawlspaces, and older buildings with insufficient insulation. Knowing where your main water shutoff is can prevent catastrophic flooding.
Related service
This answer relates to our Burst-Pipe Water Damage page.
Burst-Pipe Water DamageRelated questions
Last reviewed: September 2026